Ducati ceased to produce motorcycles with dry clutches in their production models for a few reasons. One of the primary reasons was to comply with stricter noise and emissions regulations. Dry clutches tend to produce more noise compared to wet clutches, which use oil for lubrication and noise reduction. As noise regulations became more stringent, Ducati decided to transition to wet clutches to meet these requirements and ensure their motorcycles could be sold in various markets around the world.
Another factor that contributed to this change was the advancement in technology and the desire to improve overall performance and rider experience. Wet clutches offer smoother engagement and reduced clutch lever effort, which can enhance the rideability of the motorcycle, especially in stop-and-go traffic situations. Additionally, wet clutches tend to have a longer service life and require less maintenance compared to dry clutches.
The exact timeline of when Ducati made this transition may vary across different models, as it was a gradual process. However, in recent years, Ducati has predominantly used wet clutches in their production motorcycles. It's important to note that while dry clutches are no longer offered as standard equipment, some Ducati models, particularly in their high-performance and racing-oriented lineup, may still offer dry clutches as optional or aftermarket upgrades for riders who prefer the characteristic sound and feel associated with dry clutch systems.